Getting involved can pave the way

December 06, 2007|EducationQuest Foundation

If youÂ?ve heard anything about the benefits of getting involved in extracurricular activities, youÂ?ve heard that it will help you: Â? Get better grades Â? Acquire valuable life skills Â? Practice time management Â? Serve your community Â? Do what you enjoy

Getting involved in high school is also an important part of college planning. When considering your application, a college looks at more than your grades. They want to know who you are when youÂ?re not in class.

Volunteer and paid work, community service, clubs, sports, music and church activities are all considered extracurricular activities. Choose activities that utilize your strengths or help you develop new skills. They may even help you decide on a college major and career path.

Colleges also want to see that you can manage your time and prioritize your work. Therefore, choose your activities carefully. DonÂ?t ever commit yourself and take away from school work or family time.

At the same time, donÂ?t limit yourself to one type of activity or narrow your focus too much.

This is a time to explore who you are and what you like to do.

Find something you can stick with and develop leadership skills by taking an active role in a group or organization. Colleges will notice your commitment and contribution to your school or community.

To get started, talk to your guidance counselor about school-based activities. You can also contact local service organizations such as your church or the United Way or local fine arts groups.

Your local newspaper or cityÂ?s Web site may be able to provide a list of volunteer activities.

To keep a written record of all of your activities, including your paid jobs, use the activities resume at www.educationquest.org.

This tool will help you build a resume for college admissions and scholarship applications.